BMW 4 series release date

The new BMW 4 Series will replace the BMW 3 Series. The concept of the fourth generation BMW was unveiled during the 2013 Detroit Motor Show. It is expected to retail at around £28,000 and will formally be introduced to the public at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. What makes the new model different and how does the upgrade compare to the early versions?

The preview

The main selling point of the new BMW 4 Series is the new aerodynamics. Lighter with a revamped bumper, wheels and an enhanced engine, it will boast of 6 manual or 8 automatic transmission speeds. By the end of 2013, potential owners can view the 4 Series Coupe. The 4-door Gran Coupe is expected to follow.

Release date

The production version of the 4 Series Coupe is expected in showrooms by the end of 2013, with the 4 Series Convertible and the four-door Gran Coupe to follow.

Design

The new BMW 4 Series will have a sportier silhouette with ‘low-slung rear end’. The roofline is lower at 16mm while the track is 45mm wider in front and 80 mm at the rear. The upgrades include the L-shaped kink in the rear window, air vents or ‘Air Breathers' on the front wheels, door handles and LED lights. The front bumpers will feature ‘Air Curtains’ designed to improve and enhance air flow and ultimately, aerodynamics. Even the grill will be closed off to help the 4 series move seamlessly.

Interior

Basically following the interior layout of its predecessor, the 4 Series stands out because of the way materials are used. Hand braided leathers are all over the interior including cup holders and door panels.

Performance

Its improved aerodynamics and top engine will boost the fuel economy of the BMW 4 Series beyond 60 mpg while CO2 emissions will be under 120g/km.

Engine

There is no official word yet as to what kind of engine will be available for the BMW 4 Series, but we expect it to be more powerful than its older siblings. All three models are going to use the same engine. This will be a 3.0-litre 6-cylinder with roughly 450bhp. Overall, the BMW 4 series will be marketed as a sporty mid-range coupé powered by dynamics and boasting of a luxurious and elegant interior.